printSunflower Trophy Races – Bishops Court, Northern Ireland
Tom Sykes covered both himself and the TAS Suzuki team in glory at the
end of season Sunflower Trophy races at Bishopscourt in County Down. In
front of an estimated 12,000 fans, Sykes lifted the Man of the Meeting
award for his brace of wins in the Supersport classes and his three, top-three
finishes in the Superbike events.
In both Supersport races Sykes was in a class of his own, demonstrating
the talent and ability that has taken him to eight British Supersport podiums
this term – albeit
the Sunflower showpiece was the 21-year-old Yorkshire man’s final
farewell in TAS Suzuki colours. This also gave Sykes a one hundred percent
record in the class, with six straight victories and the class lap records
since 1994. Teammate Ian Lowry had two third-placed finishes.
In the three Superbike races Sykes finished on the final rung of the podium
just behind BSB regulars, Jonathan Rea and Michael Laverty, circulating
on the white liveried GSX–R1000 in fine style. His teammate in the
Superbike class Bruce Anstey finished the day with a 6th, 7th and 8th in
the big class.
Tom Sykes
“I’ve had a great day in Ireland once again, and to keep my record
intact in the Supersport class with six straight wins is pleasing. I had to work
hard for it in the opening Supersport race and in the second outing I really
went for it. I knew it was my last outing on the GSX–R600 machine for TAS
and to be honest I was a bit emotional. I have had three brilliant years at TAS
and all the lads have given me 110% commitment. Together we have proved that
the GSX–R600 is a superb package in British Supersport and I really
wish them well for 2007.
I’m pretty sad to be leaving and I can honestly say that Hector and Philip
Neill, along with all the team and sponsors at TAS have put Tom Sykes firmly
on his feet! There has never been a dull moment… but hey, I’m
still pretty young and I have a few years left in me yet, so I could be
back as I know Philip has big plans for the future.
Thanks to all the Irish fans at the Sunflower who treated me like one of
their own and hopefully I can come back next year on a Superbike and take
home the main prize.”
Philip Neill – Team Manager
“It certainly is a fairytale ending to our relationship with Tom, and to
go out on such a high note is great for everyone involved. I personally, on behalf
of all our team members and sponsors, would like to thank Tom for three great
years. He is a tremendous talent, and while we have chosen to lead Suzuki’s
challenge in the British Supersport series in 2007 with Michael Laverty
and Ian Lowry, it is no secret that Tom is looking to move to the Superbike
class
.
Obviously we are both disappointed that we cannot continue working together
in 2007, but we wish Tom well as he embarks on the next stage of his career
and I’m sure all the boys in the team will be cheering him on next
season!”
16 October 2006